Energy Safety (ES)
The Energy Safety (ES) is the part of the Ministry of Economic Development which monitors and encourages compliance with the laws relating to energy safety. We achieve this by working with both the general public and industry to create an environment in which:
- people and property are safeguarded from the dangers of gas and electricity
- gas and electrical appliances, installations, electricity supply and generating systems are safe
- the quality and measurement of gas and electricity is maintained
Electricity and gas can be very unforgiving. They can be hazardous for people, their property and the environment if not used properly. It is the job of ES to make the public and industry aware of this through the promotion of energy safety. We see this as lifesaving work. However, accidents are still occurring, the scale of this becomes clear when reading the Summary of Electrical and Gas Accidents, which ES publishes annually. And so, ES remains committed to maintaining and improving New Zealand's safety record.
The ES is committed to ensuring the safe supply and use of electricity and gas. We work with industry to promote high safety and quality standards in networks, installations and products. ES also works to ensure the appliances people use are safe and they are used safely. Our work is vital in ensuring consumers enjoy the benefits of energy safely.
We also monitor, encourage and enforce compliance with the laws relating to energy safety.
ES oversees the safety, supply quality and measurement requirements of the Electricity Act 1992 and the Gas Act 1992, and enforces provisions of the Hazardous Substances and New Organisms Act 1996 for fuel gases, by:
- developing and applying internationally accepted standards for New Zealand’s systems of electricity and gas safety, supply quality and measurement
- networking with other interested national and international organisations
- publicising energy safety, and advising consumers and business about the safety of energy products and services
- ensuring gas and electrical appliances and fittings are safe for use in New Zealand through industry surveillance and product monitoring
- undertaking investigations, corrective action and enforcement.
Energy Safety is part of the Business Services Branch of the Ministry of Economic Development.
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Energy Safety (ES) Website
Energy Safety (ES) website provides New Zealand consumers, businesses and industry and those working with gas and electricity with a wide range of information on energy safety issues.
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